The Dress - How do you know?

First off, CONGRATULATIONS on that awesome weight loss! That being said, since your wedding isn't until July, you'll still have plenty of time for alterations with whatever dress you end up getting.

When I was shopping at David's Bridal, I asked the fitting room attendant if every bride has that "omg this is the one" moment. She told me it doesn't always happen and that I didn't seem like the type of person who would have that moment (told me I seemed very down to earth rather than having my head in the clouds, which I thought was a nice compliment I guess? ). I'm still not sure if that made me feel better or worse, but the next thing I've heard really helped me. I read that if you don't generally get crazy excited about things, in particular clothing, it's unrealistic to expect yourself to have this insane reaction to a dress just because you're "supposed to". That hit home with me, I've never felt excited about anything I've worn (self esteem issues).

I ended up returning my first dress that I bought in the mindset of "well this is the best out of the ones I've tried on", but I didn't love it. Then I tried on a sample from Azazie and while I still didn't have that emotional moment, I didn't want to take it off and I tried it on every single day until I had to send it back.

Long story short, I think you're putting way too much pressure on yourself, I've been doing the same thing. Find a dress that you think is beautiful and that makes you feel beautiful, don't hold out for a feeling that may never come. You should love the dress you buy, but it doesn't have to be this magical moment like we see on tv and movies. This may not have helped, but I think perspective can do wonders for us in tough situations. Best of luck to you!!

EDIT: I also wouldn't rely so much on photos online. Both dresses I've bought look a lot different on me/in person than they do in the photo on the model. There was a dress online that I LOVED in the picture, but once I saw it in person I couldn't stand it!

When I was looking at dresses my family that was with me fell in love with a dress that I just didn't want- it was a struggle for me to say no but I did.

The reason I chose my "yes" dress was because I felt confident and comfortable in it. I didn't have some huge OMG moment, I just liked the way I felt in the dress.

I would suggest going to a few boutiques (maybe make a day out of it since they are out of town) and just trying on different styles. You can still order offline if you'd like, but at least you would have a sense of what shapes and styles you like!

Best of luck and congratulations on your weight loss- that is amazing!

I bought one dress but kept thinking about a different one for days and when I went back to the store and tried on the other dress I just knew.

I didn't have that "OMG" moment either. But the dress I chose made me feel beautiful and checked off all my important boxes (not blingy, not poofy, sorta simple, in my price range). Now that I have it, I can't stop looking at the picture of me in it. I'm finally getting the "this is it" feelings.

I haven't gone yet but im going next weekend. I don't expect to have that "moment" though. I like to dress up now and then but overall im a bit of a tomboy and am most comfortable in some skinny jeans, a hoodie and boots. ha ha. I'd recommend going in person to try some on and bring a friend or two!

That being said i love the dress in the photo you posted. Where is that from? Or did you just find a random picture?

Good luck!